DEGC seeks to expand Detroit business with new database

Expanding business in Detroit is a collaborative effort, and one that requires the input of an entire community. One economic organization aims at improving the local economy through building connections with a new program.

In an effort to get city businesses to purchase more goods from one another, the Detroit Economic Growth Corp has secured agreements from 15 large Detroit-based companies and universities. Their latest venture, the D2D database aims to serve as a liaison between purchasers and suppliers of goods and services.

Olga Stella, Vice President of Business Development for the DEGC, said the initiative is one that she believes will increase job opportunities in the city and save local buyers money.

“If we really focus our efforts on this local B2B economy, it will lead to increased contracts, and companies would be able to hire more people and serve the increased demand.”

The new program already looks promising with an impressive roster. Companies that have signed on include DTE Energy Co., the Detroit Medical Center, Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan, Quicken Loans Inc., Comerica Bank, Urban Science Inc., Wayne State University, Skidmore Inc., Strategic Staffing Solutions Inc., the University of Detroit-Mercy, the Henry Ford Health System, the Greektown Casino-Hotel, the Detroit Lions, Ernst & Young LLP and Compuware Corp.

Funded through a New Economy Initiative for Southeast Michigan grant, D2D will be free for businesses to register. It is modeled after the Pure Michigan Business Connect, a state-level database that is currently under the management of the Michigan Economic Development Corp.

D2D provides an array of resources related to advertising and promotions, legal services, equipment, building maintenance and janitorial services. Businesses currently in use of the program already boast significant spending. VP Stella said her organization will also use D2D as a business recruitment tool.

The new initiative looks to prove to prospective investors that coming to Detroit is worth their while. Tempting incentives are what’s needed to help them see the benefits of doing business in the city.